What happened
This report details two distinct mid-air collisions occurring in France.
On August 23, 2004, near Aubuscon-d’Auvergne, a Sky Ranger ultralight, identified as 63-RH, was conducting a local flight. Simultaneously, a pair of Mirage 2000 N aircraft from Istres-le-Tubé were performing low-altitude strike training. The wingman aircraft, registered F-ULCU, was descending to rejoin the formation at approximately 500 ft AGL. During this maneuver, the Mirage 2000 N collided with the 63-RH, resulting in two fatalities (the pilot and passenger) and the destruction of the ultralight. The collision caused fuel leaks and damage to the F-ULCU's elevon.
On July 12, 2007, near Etrigny, a Storm 300 ultralight, identified as 71-GL, was performing a local flight. A Mirage 2000 N, registered F-ULAK, was executing a low-altitude strike mission. While the military jet was performing a high-bank right turn at approximately 950 ft AGL, the pilot spotted the ultralight to the right. Despite immediate evasive maneuvers involving a dive and roll, the F-ULAK struck the 71-GL. The collision resulted in one fatality (the ultralight pilot) and the destruction of the 71-GL.
The investigation
The investigation, conducted jointly by the BEA and BEAD-Air, examined the flight paths, aircraft technical specifications, and environmental conditions. Investigators analyzed the visibility, sun position, and the technical capabilities of the aircraft, including the Mirage 2000 N's radar and transponder systems. The study also reviewed the limitations of visual detection in high-speed, low-altitude environments, specifically looking at how cockpit structures and physiological factors like blind spots affect a pilot's ability to maintain situational awareness.
Findings
- The 63-RH ultralight lacked anti-collision lights, navigation lights, and a transponder.
- The 71-GL ultralight was equipped with an anti-collision light but lacked navigation lights and a transponder.
- The Mirage 2000 N aircraft were equipped with transponders and navigation lights but lacked TCAS.
- In both accidents, the failure of mutual visual detection was the primary factor. The high speed of the military jets and the low visibility/low contrast of the ultralights made detection extremely difficult during critical maneuvers.